To support this, Curtis has developed and brought to market its F-series of controllers which represent a significant evolution of its widely used and proven over time E-series.
Here we look at some of the controllers’ key features and advantages over the E-series to provide guidance to those looking towards the next generation of motor controllers that have been designed to offer higher performance and efficiency and be more compact.
A controller that aligns with modern industry demands
Although the E-series was designed to meet the safety and performance standards of its time, today’s applications demand more. Therefore, the F-series is built to align with current trends in electrification, including stricter functional safety expectations, advanced diagnostics, and system-level integration.
In addition, modern OEMs require controllers that can seamlessly integrate into networked vehicle architectures. The F-series controllers support this by enabling better communication, real-time diagnostics, and centralised control across multiple subsystems.
Built on a significantly updated hardware and software architecture, compared to the legacy E-series, the F-series has more powerful processing platforms which supports a category 2 designated architecture for functional safety. This updated architecture also provides improved firmware (FOS – Function Operating System) and control algorithms.
This results in faster response times, improved control accuracy, and the ability to handle more complex applications. It also reflects the broader industry shift toward software-defined and networked vehicle systems.
Enhanced programmability and CAN Bus integration
One of the most important advancements in the F-series is its native CAN-based programmability, which addresses the shift from rigid, proprietary systems to flexible, interoperable, and intelligent networks.
So, unlike the E-series, which relies on older serial communication methods, F-series controllers:
- Are fully programmable over CAN Bus
- Support modern vehicle communication standards
- Integrate seamlessly with other Electronic Control Units (ECUs)
The benefits of this are realised in easier system integration, faster commissioning and updates and improved diagnostics and fault tracing.
Additionally, tools such as the Curtis Integrated Toolkit (CIT) provide a centralised and user-friendly interface for configuration, monitoring, and tuning.
The scalability and system-level integration of the controllers across a wide range of applications and system roles makes them ideal for OEMs looking to standardise platforms across vehicle types as they can act as CAN masters or system managers. They can also operate as standalone controllers and co-ordinate multiple subsystems within a vehicle.
Greater system control capabilities
For OEMs looking to customise vehicle behaviour, the F-series controllers offer a much more advanced toolchain and programming model, enabling more flexibility and efficiency.
For instance, multiple functions can be handled within a single controller and complex control logic can be implemented onboard. Even development, testing, and troubleshooting are more streamlined, so there is a reduced dependency on external modules and overall system design is simplified.
A comprehensive vehicle system manager
Through its increased number of I/O (input/output) channels, which are more configurable, there is a reduced need for additional and costly control hardware. And as there is support for a wide range of sensors and actuators there is greater system flexibility and enables OEMs to design more feature-rich machines.
Furthermore, improved vehicle performance, energy efficiency, and overall user experience is delivered through the broad range of motor technologies that are supported. Such as AC induction motors, permanent magnet AC (PMAC) motors and brushless DC (BLDC) motors. Which provide higher efficiency, better torque control and a smoother operation.
Meeting advanced safety and serviceability requirements
F-Series controllers are and will be compliant with all incoming legislative changes in the Machinery Directive and the Cyber Resilience. To address applications that require higher reliability and compliance with modern safety standards the controllers have more advanced safety mechanisms. Such as some models are designed with dual-micro architecture to meet category 2 functional safety. They also benefit from improved fault detection and handling and therefore offer better support for system-level safety strategies.
Another key advantage of F-series controllers are its enhanced diagnostics capability delivered through its real-time system monitoring, detailed fault codes and logging and easier remote diagnostics via CAN. All of which reduces downtime, simplifies maintenance, and improves overall service efficiency.
A future-ready platform
As industries move toward more connected, software-driven systems, F-series controllers are better supported for new developments, more adaptable to evolving standards and much easier to update and extend compared to the E-series. For OEMs, this translates into longer product lifecycles and a reduced risk of obsolescence which can result in operational efficiency, safety, and financial performance.
For many years, the Curtis E-series controllers have served reliably. However, the F-series represents a significant step forward in controller technology and can reduce the risks associated with the legacy E-series.
Through modern architecture, advanced programmability, improved safety, and superior system integration, F-series controllers are better suited to meet the demands of today’s electrified and connected vehicle ecosystems. So, if you have a new project or upgrade you’d like to discuss get in touch with our team who have extensive knowledge and a strong partnership with Curtis.